October Playtest Packet - Magic Items, Updated XP, Monster Traits

There's a brand new D&D Next Playtest packet available (dated 8th October)! Updates this time round include: updated XP values for monsters and encounter building guidelines; magic items; changes to monsters and addition of traits; an update of the Caves of Chaos adventure to reflect the addition of magic items and revisions to monsters.

Well, the sorcerer and warlock updates were staggered shortly after the initial release of the 2nd packet. I'll cross my fingers that something similar could happen this time.
... perhaps setting myself up for disappointment?

I guess, they are having so many files, so they can update them one by one and make changes when they are ready...

although, i am also a bit disappointed, as i was awaiting the update when i saw, L&L was coming late, but actually, for my current playtest, magic items and monster updates are more welcome than any changes to the classes (as i don┤t have my players to change their characters again)

I am not sure if to hit numbers should really be increased... xp values are now more sensible. Also you notice, especially weak monsters have new improved mob tactics, that allow them to gain up to a +5 bonus to hit without wasting any actions... which seems to make them useful.

Also some creatures have gained a little + to their attack values if i don┤t remeber wrong. Classed creatures seemed to have gained a class bonus to hit (like the pries etc.) Most monsters have no class however, so they lack a bonus.

Overall i am very pleased with the magic items. They mostly seem reasonable. Now we just need some rules for higher level chars.

Well, this playtest was about the magic items. After a first glimpse these seems good and moving to the right direction, although a more thoroughfull look is needed.
The monster got, as the playtest writes, a little refinement. Nothing more. The monster are tied to the classes and to the game mechanics. I suppose they ll have to "attuned" (a new trend word :P) all together.